The calcium supplements taken by many women are composed primarily of powdered c

Question

The calcium supplements taken by many women are composed primarily of powdered calcium carbonate, which is also the primary component of marble. 

a. Briefly explain why CaCO3 would be a good source for a women suffering from chronic heart-burn. Use a net ionic equation. 

b. Marble statues erode when exposed to acidic precipitation. Give a bried chemical explanation for this erosion. 

c. Briefly explain why many people prefer antiacids in which Mg(OH)2 is the active ingredient over those that use CaCO3. 

Explanation / Answer

a) The net ionic equation is :

CO3-2(aq) + 2H+(aq) --> CO2(g) + H2O(l)
Since these supplements help in liberating carbon dioxide from the body, they help in cases of chronic-heart burn.

b) The reaction is as follows :

CaCO3(s) + 2HCl(aq) --> CaCl2(s) + CO2(g) + H2O(g)

The calcium chloride formed is soluble in water and will lead to erosion.

c) A slurry can be made out of Mg(OH)2 and it can be consumed in liquid form. Also it is a better antacid since it releases OH- which is a stronger base as opposed to Co32- which is a weak acid. Hence, one would be forced to consume CaCo3 less frequently and is less quantity.

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